The Brookhaven Municipal Court called its first session to order last week, providing another opportunity for residents to participate in their city government.

Court was scheduled for 1 p.m. at the city’s new municipal court complex at 2 Corporate Blvd., Suite 125, Brookhaven.

The city court has jurisdiction over ordinance violations and state misdemeanors, including traffic violations.

On Friday, Chief Judge Laura E. Stevenson presided over about 40 cases that were listed on the first docket.

Stevenson runs her own legal practice, specializing in commercial disputes, employment, consumer credit and civil rights. She previously served as a magistrate court judge in Cobb County. Jonathan R. Granade, an attorney with Casey Gilson P.C., will serve as judge pro tem.

“I am confident Judge Stevenson and Judge Granade will ensure that all who come to court in Brookhaven will get fair consideration and justice in a professionally and efficiently run city court,” Mayor J. Max Davis said.

“I am honored that these two outstanding citizen-judges have agreed to serve our community.”

City Clerk Susan Hiott is serving as court administrator.

Arraignments will be held each Tuesday and Friday at 1 p.m. Trials will be scheduled on the third Wednesday of each month.

The city anticipates bringing in about $800,000 in revenue from court operations. However, that number may increase after the city police department begins operations this summer.

Defendants may pay their citations online at www.brookhavenga.gov/court.html or at the court window, which will be open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Defendants appearing in court are required to dress appropriately and will be subject to security inspections.

For more information on appropriate dress and court rules, visit www.brookhavenga.gov/court.html.

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